Raleigh County Sheriff issues statement regarding investigation into the death of Baylea Bower

By RealWV Staff,

BECKLEY, WV – Following public outcry, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department has issued a statement on the continued investigation into the death of Boone County’s Baylea Bower. 

“The Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the fatal crash that occurred on April 20, 2025, involving Baylea Bower. While we understand the concerns of the public, her friends and her family, we must conduct a complete and thorough investigation prior to filing charges or making any arrests.

Evidence has been collected and sent to the WV State Police Forensics Lab for analysis. Additional records have been requested through the Circuit Court of Raleigh County and are pending return from the parties they were requested from. Once all evidence has been analyzed and all records received the appropriate charges will be filed in this case.

The investigation is being handled by Lt. Jason L. Redden. Lt. Redden has over 22 years experience in conducting all types of  investigations. Lt. Redden has been and continues to be in close consultation with the Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office regarding this investigation.

Any questions may be directed to the attention of Lieutenant Redden at 304-255-9300, ext. 2135.” 

According to a prior press release from the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, at approximately 12:45 a.m. on April 20, the Chevrolet Tahoe driven by Bower, 24, was hit head-on by the driver of a Toyota Tacoma identified as Destany Lester, 18, of Fairdale. 

Bower was pronounced dead at the scene while Lester was airlifted in critical condition to the trauma center at CAMC General. 

“The Toyota Tacoma driven by Lester was traveling south on WV 121 when it struck the guardrail,” according to information in the press release. “Lester’s vehicle then crossed both southbound lanes, the grassy median strip and entered the northbound lanes still traveling southbound. Lester’s vehicle then struck the Chevrolet Tahoe driven by Baylea Bower head-on.” 

At the time of the press release, both the speed of the vehicle operated by Lester as well as driver impairment were considered factors in the crash. 

“Criminal charges are anticipated upon completion of the investigation,” according to the press release. 

Now, nearly four months after the accident, Bower’s family is still looking for answers and have planned a “Justice for Baylea” rally to take place in front of the Raleigh County Courthouse on Aug. 6. 

RealWV will provide updates as they become available.